What is the healthiest thing to cook chicken with?

Poached Chicken Poaching is great because it adds virtually no fat to your food, yet yields subtle flavour and moisture. To poach your chicken, add your ingredients (chicken and any other vegetables, aromatics, and spices you like) to a skillet or pot, and add a cooking liquid such as broth, wine, or coconut milk.

What is the healthiest chicken to eat?

In general, skinless chicken breast is considered one of the healthiest cuts of chicken. It is low in fat and calories, yet high in protein and essential nutrients such as vitamins B6 and B12, niacin, and phosphorus.

What is the best chicken for weight loss?

If your main aim is weight loss, then the best type of chicken you can opt for is- skinless, boneless chicken breast . Do you know that 3-ounce serving of skinless, boneless chicken breast provides just 140 calories, a whopping 26 grams of protein, and just 3 grams of fat?

Can I eat chicken everyday and be healthy?

Chicken is a healthy food (as long as it's poached, baked or grilled), but that doesn't mean you should eat it every single day . As both dietitians have explained, eating a wide variety of foods is the best way to give your body the nutrients it needs.

What is the unhealthiest part of the chicken?

The highest fat content in a chicken comes from the skin , followed by the wings, which just barely edge out the next-fattiest cut of chicken meat, the thigh. Next up is the drumstick, followed by breast meat, which is the leanest cut of chicken.

Can you lose belly fat by eating chicken?

Chicken helps lose overall body weight if consumed as a healthy and balanced diet. In the process, one can also lose belly fat . While eating chicken, remember to opt for lean chicken breast; it is a good source of protein with fewer calories.

Is rotisserie chicken good for you?

Even with additives, a rotisserie chicken is a far healthier choice than a fast food run , says Allers. “It's still lower in fat and calories than fast food. It's serving its purpose – it's fast, but it can still help you create a balanced meal.

Is chicken good for losing belly fat?

If you are a meat-eater, lean chicken breast is a great source of protein if you want to beat belly fat . But do not forget healthy, fatty fish such as salmon.

Will eating chicken and rice everyday help me lose weight?

Yep, chicken and rice is a solid meal choice for weight loss . Chicken is a great source of lean protein, meaning it'll supply more protein for less calories than other cuts of meat like lean steak or salmon. Plus, the combo of carbs and protein will keep you satisfied for hours.

What is the best time to eat chicken?

Boil Chicken for Lunch or dinner Boil chicken is best for lunch and dinner. The only catch is to include some complex carbs such as multi grain/oats bread or chapatti in the lunch with chicken. In the dinner take carbs only in the form of salad along with chicken eat egg white omelette as a post workout meal.

Is frying or baking chicken healthier?

But there's a healthier, equally delicious way to eat comfort food like fried chicken. And it's all thanks to your oven. By cooking chicken in the oven, you'll use little oil, which will minimize heart health risks . Aside from being healthier for your heart, this chicken is also high in protein (8 g per serving).

What is the healthiest way to cook meat?

Grilling, roasting, baking, broiling, steaming, press cooking and slow cooking are some of the healthiest ways to cook meat. And yes, you should avoid deep-frying it. “Avoid marinades and sauces that are high in sugar and sodium,” she adds.

Is chicken cooked in olive oil healthy?

Benefits of frying chicken in olive oil There are loads of health benefits when it comes to frying with olive oil. The product can help prevent cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes . It's also an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich.

47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (2024)

We’ve rounded up 47 of the best healthy chicken recipes! Each of these recipes are easy to throw together, absolutely delicious, and of course, good for you! This is healthy eating done deliciously.

About These Chicken Recipes

This collection of chicken dinners—including everything from skillet chicken and chicken meatballs to chicken bulgogi and chicken curry—primarily use chicken breast, but a few use chicken thighs. Both are generally interchangeable—chicken breasts are slightly leaner than chicken thighs, but thighs have more flavor and are juicier.

You’ll see we’ve shared some helpful notes on each recipe to make your planning easier—pointing out some nutrition information and which recipes are particularly quick to make.

Add or Substitute with Chicken

In addition to the list of healthy dinner recipes below, get creative a add chicken to recipes that might not call for it. Such as my tofu fried rice—add cubed leftover chicken or grab a rotisserie chicken from the store!

Or, instead of using cooked turkey in my creamy slow-cooker wild rice soup, use shredded chicken!

Use ground chicken instead of ground turkey in these fan-favorite Asian Meatballs.

Swap the cooked leftover turkey for cooked chicken in these delicious Chinese Lettuce Wraps.

Looking for some quick and healthy side dishes? You’re in the recipe place, we love healthy food around here! Check out my side dish recipe archive.

Chicken Meal Prep

Some of these chicken dishes call for cooked chicken. I recommend either cooking a few chicken breasts, making a whole roasted chicken, or grabbing a couple of rotisserie chickens from the store at the beginning of the week. The goal is to cut down on prep time during the week so you can easily get a healthy meal on the table when you’re short on time.

If you choose the rotisserie chicken route (which I love!), I recommend taking the meat off of the bones while it’s still warm. Once it’s refrigerated, the process of getting the meat off of the bones becomes a lot harder! If you’ve got the time and the desire, save the chicken bones for homemade chicken stock.

47 Healthy & Delicious Chicken Recipes

1. Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken

gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, low-fat

Saucy 10-ingredient Salsa Verde Chicken made in the Instant Pot! Great in tacos and burritos, over rice, salads and so much more.

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2. Bulgogi Bowls with Quinoa and Roasted Broccoli

gluten-free, low-fat, dairy-free, low-fat

Bulgogi bowls featuring charred and juicy Korean beef bulgogi or chicken bulgogi, a sweet and savory sauce, roasted broccoli, and quinoa. So good!

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3. Harvest Cobb Salad

gluten-free

This harvest salad is a twist on the cobb salad with chicken, butternut squash, pecans, bacon, apple and a maple vinaigrette.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (4)

4. Chicken Meatball Curry

gluten-free, dairy-free

A full-flavored meatball curry featuring tender chicken and spinach meatballs and an ultra-creamy spiced curry. Inspired by traditional Indian Kofta Curry, this comforting dinner will will surprise you with it’s depth of flavor and nuance.

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5. Healthy Baked Chicken Meatballs

30-minute recipe

These healthy baked chicken meatballs are tender, moist and flavored with classic Italian ingredients. Serve over pasta or as an appetizer!

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6. Mexican-Inspired Fajita Bowls

gluten-free, dairy-free, 30-minute meal

Healthy 30-minute Mexican Rice Bowls featuring cilantro lime brown rice, a saucy fajita mixture full of veggies and lean protein, and diced avocado to finish!

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7. Chicken Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Chicken)

gluten-free, low-carb, low-fat, dairy-free

Enjoy the classic sweet, savory and spicy flavors of Korean bulgogi in this lightened up version made with either chicken breast or thighs. Easy and tasty!

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8.

gluten-free, low-fat, dairy-free

This gochujang chicken is made with juicy chicken breast, roasted broccolini and a crispy rice cake. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s the BEST gochujang chicken!

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9. Tuscan Chicken Sausages with White Beans and Kale

gluten-free, low-fat, dairy-free, 40-minute meal

This easy Italian chicken sausage recipe is made with fire-roasted tomatoes, kale and white beans. It’s healthy, satisfying and meal prep-friendly!

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10. Healthy Aromatic Chicken Rice Soup

gluten-free, low-fat, 45-minute recipe

Healthy Chicken Rice Soup packed with flavor from garlic, ginger, and shallot. Featuring sweet potatoes, cilantro, and toasted sesame oil.

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11.

gluten-free, low-carb, low-fat, dairy-free, 30-minute meal

This recipe for herbed chicken skewers is easy to whip up and perfect for making ahead. Healthy and packed with fresh flavors, these skewers are delicious!

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12. Chimichurri Chicken

gluten-free, low-carb, low-fat, dairy-free

The best recipe for chimichurri chicken! Make with either chicken breasts or thighs then marinate in a bright herb sauce and grill until juicy and charred.

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13.

gluten-free, low-carb, low-fat, dairy-free, 30-minute meal

This easy apricot chicken recipe with broccoli is made on one pan and ready in 30 minutes. It features glazed tenders, broccoli, dried apricots and almonds!

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14.

dairy-free, low-fat, gluten-free, 30-minute recipe

Light and healthy, this quick “weeknight” chicken pho packs tons of flavor, protein and nutrients into a warm bowl of flavorful broth. Ready in minutes.

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15. Crispy Oven Fried Chicken

gluten-free, low-carb, low-fat, dairy-free, 45-minute recipe

Oven fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Say no to fatty fried chicken and YES to this easy and healthy BAKED fried chicken!

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16. Korean-Inspired Shredded Chicken Nachos

gluten-free, 30-minute recipe

Korean Shredded Chicken Nachos featured saucy shredded chicken, charred corn, fresh kimchi “pico de gallo,” and a creamy gochujang sauce!

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17. Baked Popcorn Chicken

low-carb, low-fat, gluten-free, 40-minute recipe

Crispy outside, moist inside—these homemade chicken nuggets, or Popcorn Chicken, are delightful! Great for kids and adults!

I developed this recipe, styled it and photographed it for Sir Kensington’s!

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18. Quick Curried Chicken Lentil Soup

gluten-free, dairy-free, 35-minute meal

Dig into a steaming bowl of healthy comfort food with this recipe for Curried Chicken Lentil Soup. Packed with protein from lentils and chicken, this flavorful soup is also loaded with leafy greens. Top it off with crunchy peanuts, cilantro and fresh lime.

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19. Pesto Chicken Tenders

gluten-free, low-carb, high-protein, 20-minute meal

A Pesto Chicken recipe that’s simple, unfussy and perfect for weeknights. These pesto chicken tenders are so versatile—throw them over a salad or pilaf, put them in a wrap or sandwich, make a pizza or serve them over your favorite pesto pasta. One recipe, millions of options!

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20. Chicken Souvlaki (Broil or Grill)

dairy-free, gluten-free, low-carb, high-protein

Our Greek Souvlaki recipe features tender bites of chicken coated in an herby olive oil sauce. Infused with the flavors of grilled lemon and good olive oil—this recipe for Greek Souvlaki will impress. Serve platter-style with warm pita bread and homemade tzatziki or stuffed into warmed pita pockets (as shown in the opening photo).

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21. Healthy Chicken Larb (Larb Gai)

gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, high-protein, 25-minute meal

This Thai-inspired chicken larb (Larb gai or Laab Gai) is the perfect healthy weeknight meal. These ground chicken lettuce wraps are loaded with fresh herbs and savory flavors—they’re the perfect healthy weeknight meal.

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22. Healthy One-Pan Chicken Marbella

dairy-free, gluten-free, high-protein, low-carb

A healthier take on Chicken Marbella! Our version is packed with all the bold flavors you expect from this classic dish without the loads of brown sugar so often found in the traditional recipe. We also simplify the process with no marinating!

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23. Chicken Pozole Verde

gluten-free, dairy-free, high-protein

When you’re looking for something comforting yet light and flavorful, this Pozole Verde (chicken posole) is it. The silky broth gets its body and tangy flavors from lime, tomatillos, cilantro and toasted pepitas. The vibrant green broth snuggles into the nooks and crannies of the shredded chicken and creates a dish that’s a true delight.

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24. Quick ‘n Easy 30-Minute Ground Chicken Noodle Soup

dairy-free, 30-minute meal

A quick and easy chicken noodle soup loaded with chicken flavor, perfectly tender vegetables, whole-wheat pasta and a dose of freshness from lemon and dill. Don’t let the simple ingredient list and easy method fool you—this soup is loaded with comfort, like every chicken noodle soup should be!

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25.

gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb

A delicious and healthy Mexican Chicken Soup made all in one pot, in 45 minutes and with a simple list of humble ingredients. This chicken tomato soup features a flavorful broth, juicy and tender shredded chicken thighs, and a combination of tomatoes, jalapeños and onion. Finish with salty Cotija and creamy avocado for an easy all-in-one meal.

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26. Sopa de Pollo con Fideo

dairy-free, 30-minute meal

Sopa de Pollo con Fideo, a simple Mexican Chicken Noodle soup that comes together quickly and has great depth of flavor. Top with crumbled Cotija cheese and leafy cilantro for a craveable anytime dinner.

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27. 4-Ingredient Crispy Baked Chicken Cutlets

30-minute recipe, low-fat

This recipe for crispy baked chicken cutlets is a favorite around here for many reasons, the top two being it’s much healthier than fried chicken and it creates way less of a mess. The baked chicken cutlets come out of the oven with a crisp golden brown crust and juicy, moist white meat.

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28. Chicken Barbacoa (Mexican Shredded Chicken)

low-fat, low-carb, high-protein

Saucy Chicken Barbacoa, aka a flavor-packed Mexican shredded chicken that’s destined for tacos, enchiladas, burritos and so much more. If you’re looking for a super savory chicken recipe that’s hands-off and can feed a crowd, well, you’ve come to the right place!

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29. Chicken Paillard with Shallot Butter Sauce and Arugula Salad

30-minute meal, low-carb, high-protein

This foolproof chicken paillard recipe is easier than most thanks to a simple trick for prepping the chicken. Dipped in a delicious shallot pan sauce and served with a flavorful arugula salad, this is one glorious weeknight meal that will feed a crew!

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30. Perfect Pan Seared Chicken Breast

low-carb, high-protein, 15-minute recipe

This quick and easy recipe for the perfect pan-seared chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner! After many tests and trials, I decided to serve this with a quick pan sauce. The drippings leftover in the pan are so tasty, I just couldn’t leave them behind!

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31. Baked Chicken Parmesan

high-protein, 30-minute meal

A restaurant classic made healthier while still being just as crispy and juicy as the original! This Healthy Chicken Parmesan recipe features a crisp golden-brown crust, juicy moist chicken, and of course, delicious melty cheese.

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32.

gluten-free, dairy-free, low-fat

This healthy Instant Pot Orange Chicken and Broccoli recipe is low in sugar and high in lean protein. Ready in less than an hour it’s better than take out!

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33. Healthy Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas

gluten-free

Salsa verde chicken enchiladas are a healthy, satisfying take on classic enchiladas verdes! Made with chicken, kale and creamy verde sauce.

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34. Mexican Pinwheels

Low-fat, 25-minutes

These Mexican Pinwheels feature shredded chicken tossed with a creamy chipotle sauce, a crunchy medley of fresh vegetables and loads of cilantro. Serve a lime cream on the side for the ultimate healthy appetizer or lunch.

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35. Easy Italian Wedding Soup

dairy-free, low-carb, 40 minutes, high-protein

This recipe can be made with either ground chicken or ground turkey. The tender meatballs are first browned then simmered in a garlicky broth. Finished with hearty greens and creamy white beans, this soup is a flavorful all-in-one dinner.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (36)

36. Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

dairy-free, gluten-free, 40-minute recipe

A healthy and easy chicken and rice soup! Made in one pot and ready in 40 minutes, this homemade chicken rice soup is infused with chickeny goodness, fresh veggies and the vibrant flavors of dill and lemon.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (37)

37. Musakhan (Sumac Chicken)

gluten-free, dairy-free, high-protein, low-carb

This Musakhan Sumac Chicken will surprise you with its savoriness and depth of flavor. Musakhan is a traditional Palestinian chicken dish consisting of spiced roast chicken, caramelized onions, and chewy flatbread. It’s commonly finished with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (38)

38. Broccolini, Chicken Sausage & Orzo Skillet

low-fat, 30-minute meal

This quick skillet meal is perfect for busy evenings. The sausage and orzo simmer together in chicken broth, resulting in a creamy, risotto-like dish in under 30 minutes.

I developed this recipe for Diabetic Living Magazine!

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (39)

39. Grilled Chicken & Arugula Peach Salad

gluten-free, low-carb, 45-minute recipe

Gorgeous charred chicken thighs served with a delicious arugula and peach salad. Simple, fresh, and satisfying!

I developed this recipe, styled it and photographed it for Sir Kensington’s!

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (40)

40. Coconut Curry Soup with Chicken and Chickpeas

gluten-free, low-carb, 35-minute meal

Creamy and flavorful, this comforting curry soup is packed with chicken, chickpeas, kale, and bell pepper.

Recipe from The Modern Proper.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (41)

41. Easy Chicken and Rice with Middle Eastern Flavors

gluten-free, 45-minute recipe

This One Pot Mediterranean Chicken and Rice dinner recipe is easy, flavorful, and satisfying! Made with fresh mediterranean ingredients and warm spices.

Recipe from Kroll’s Korner.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (42)

42. Crispy Sesame Chicken

low-carb, 30-minute recipe

This Crispy Sesame Chicken is baked, not fried and is slathered in the most delicious sweet yet savory sesame sauce that’s studded with sesame seeds. So much better than takeout!

Recipe from Kroll’s Korner.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (43)

43. White Chicken Chili

gluten-free, low-fat

This delicious white chicken chili is great for meal prep! Top with avocado, Greek yogurt, and jalapeno spices.

Recipe from Mom’s Dinner.

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47 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals (44)

44. Lightened-Up Curried Chicken Salad Wraps

low-fat

Classic chicken salad gets a flavor upgrade in this tasty recipe, made with a simple sauce of Greek yogurt and olive oil seasoned with curry powder, ginger and paprika. So quick and easy with pre-cooked chicken breast.

I developed this recipe for Simply Organic!

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